Question

which of the following is protected by the first amendment? a. burning an american flag as a protest against government policies b. shouting \fire!\ in a theater and causing a panic when there is no fire c. publishing government secrets that might help an enemy during wartime d. printing lies about other people in an effort to damage their reputation

Explanation:

The First Amendment protects freedom of speech, press, assembly, religion, and petition, but there are exceptions. Flag burning as political protest is symbolic speech protected (Texas v. Johnson). Shouting "Fire!" falsely (clear and present danger, Schenck v. US), publishing wartime enemy - aiding secrets (national security exception), and libel (printing lies to damage reputation) are not protected.

Answer:

A. burning an American flag as a protest against government policies